Clearwater offers more than just sunbathing and sandy beaches—it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy memorable dining experiences on the water. The city’s location along Tampa Bay makes it perfect for boat-based outings that combine great food, live entertainment, and stunning views. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise, a lively dance party, or a relaxing sightseeing tour, Clearwater’s boat excursions serve up something special. Many of these tours include options for on-board dining, making your outing not just scenic but also delicious. If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your dining, these cruises are well worth considering.
For those curious about the options, we’ve picked the top three boat-based dining experiences in Clearwater. Each offers a different vibe, from elegant sunset cruises to daytime sightseeing and dance parties, ensuring there’s something for every taste and schedule. To learn more about each tour, click on the links to visit their detailed pages.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout Clearwater boat tours with dining options:
- An elegant evening yacht cruise with optional gourmet dinner Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining
- A daytime sightseeing cruise with a chance to add on a tasty lunch Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining
- A lively dance cruise during lunchtime with optional gourmet meals Clearwater Daytime Yacht Music Cruise with Optional Dining
Each offers something different—romantic, educational, or energetic—ensuring you’ll find an experience that fits your mood and schedule.
1. Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining
Starting with the Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise, this tour offers an elegant way to enjoy sunset views, live music, and optional gourmet dining. For around $32, you get approximately three hours aboard the StarLite Majesty yacht, which departs from Clearwater. The cruise is praised for its beautiful waterfront scenery and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for romance or a special night out.
The highlight is the gorgeous sunset (season-dependent), with the yacht’s open-air observation decks providing plenty of space to soak in the view. Inside, the climate-controlled dining cabin offers comfort if you prefer to stay out of the breeze. The onboard menu includes a selection of 11 entrees, salads, desserts, and coffee or tea, which you purchase separately—adding a customizable touch to your evening. As the boat drifts along Tampa Bay, you can listen to live music, dance, or simply enjoy a romantic stroll under the stars.
Reviews consistently praise the great food, attentive service, and beautiful scenery. One guest even noted, “It was a great experience with great food and great service, beautiful scenery.” The cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic, scenic night out or anyone wanting to combine dinner with a leisurely boat ride.
Bottom Line: A classy, relaxed way to enjoy sunset views and live music, with the option to indulge in a gourmet meal—perfect for a special occasion.
2. Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining
Next up is the Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise, a two-hour journey perfect for those who want to explore Tampa Bay and inland waters. For about $27, you get a narrated cruise aboard the StarLite Majesty, with options to add a lunch once onboard. This tour offers a more educational and wildlife-focused experience, perfect for families or nature lovers.
The captain provides engaging commentary about local landmarks, marine life, and the area’s history. The calm waters and scenic views make it easy to spot dolphins and other wildlife—something kids and adults alike enjoy. The optional lunch is made fresh to order by an executive chef, with options for appetizers or a full meal, adding value for those who want a meal without leaving the boat. Many reviews mention the delicious food and attentive service, making it feel like a floating restaurant.
One traveler wrote, “The food was very tasty with good-sized portions and attentive service,” highlighting the cruise’s quality. Since this trip balances sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and dining, it’s a great choice for families, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative cruise.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to combine wildlife spotting, scenic views, and a tasty onboard meal in just a couple of hours, perfect for daytime exploration.
3. Clearwater Daytime Yacht Music Cruise with Optional Dining
Finally, the Clearwater Daytime Yacht Music Cruise injects fun into the waters of Clearwater Bay. For about $32, you’ll spend roughly two and a half hours on the StarLite Majesty, dancing and enjoying live music. The cruise begins in Clearwater Beach and features both open-air decks and an air-conditioned interior, giving you flexibility regardless of the weather.
What makes this cruise stand out is the live band playing your favorite songs—a lively atmosphere that turns a scenic cruise into a party. You can purchase a full-service bar on board, offering cocktails and drinks, and upgrade to a three-course lunch with six meal options, including salads and entrees, prepared fresh onboard. This makes it a fun, energetic option for those who want to combine music, dancing, and dining.
Guests describe the experience as “relaxing, beautiful, and full of good food and drinks,” with many noting that the music and staff contribute significantly to the fun. It is especially suited for celebrating birthdays, special occasions, or just having a lively daytime outing.
Bottom Line: A spirited cruise perfect for music lovers and those wanting to enjoy a dance-party atmosphere with the option for a gourmet lunch.
How to Choose Your Clearwater Dining Cruise
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities:
- For a romantic evening with sunset views and live music, the Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise offers an elegant experience.
- If wildlife and sightseeing are your focus during daylight hours, the Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise provides engaging narration and dolphin spotting.
- For energetic daytime fun with live music and dancing, the Clearwater Daytime Yacht Music Cruise is ideal, especially if you enjoy dancing and socializing.
Budget plays a role—these tours range from about $26 to $32, and adding onboard meals or drinks affects the overall experience. Book early, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time and seating. Think about how much scenery, wildlife, or entertainment you want; Clearwater’s water-based dining options are versatile enough to suit a variety of preferences.
Final Thoughts
Clearwater’s boat-based dining options add a memorable flavor to any visit. Whether you’re seeking a romantic sunset cruise, a relaxing daytime sightseeing tour, or a lively music and dance cruise, each of these experiences offers something special. For couples, the sunset cruise is a standout, while families and groups interested in wildlife might prefer the daytime sightseeing cruise. And if you’re after a vibrant party atmosphere, the music cruise will definitely deliver.
All three tours provide excellent value—with prices under $35 for most options—and great reviews. To ensure you get your preferred date and time, especially during peak season, booking early is highly recommended. Once onboard, you’ll find Clearwater’s waters aren’t just perfect for swimming—they make for a gorgeous, tasty, and fun backdrop for your meal.